Fascinating Things : Issue 58

For those of us born in the latter half of the last century, and growing up in the mad musical world of the 70s and 80s it is chastening that a lot of our musical heroes are moving on to the great gig in the sky in 2016. There have been many tributes over the last month or so, and I suppose I should get use to this happening. One such tribute is from the mighty Periscope, who has been somewhat quiet of late, who has worked with Monica Ward to release a cover of Bowie and Eno’s “Heroes”. It has the usual excellent Periscope wall of sound treatment and they do make a good job of honoring Bowie’s passing and legacy.

Following the very recent arrival of their ‘Questions’, single Southampton’s (UK) Circle Of Reason are now back with their latest video single titled ‘Colours’. Showcasing another metallic and emotive rock track, ‘Colours’ is an epic anthem taken from the bands forthcoming album “Faith Or Theory”.

Manon Meurt, one of the foremost shoegaze groups from Eastern Europe, who have played alongside The Raveonettes, The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, LSD and the Search for God, and My Bloody Valentine, report that their debut EP will be issued on white vinyl in May thanks to Canada’s Label Obscura. Here’s a taster.

The Battles Of Winter release new single and video ‘Love’s White Thread’ on Ruby Music on 27th May. ‘Love’s White Thread’ is the first release from the forthcoming album “At Once With Tattered Sails”. A great bass line on this and great layers of vocals and guitar.

Russia’s Sounds of Sputnik is releasing their single ‘Light Scheme (Fran Ashcroft Remix)’ from their debut LP ‘New Born’ feat. Ummagma, which also gets a re-release in early May through hallmark U.S. shoegaze label Moon Sounds Records. UK producer Fran Ashcroft, widely known for his work in the psych rock scene, has also worked with Damon Albarn (Blur) and Lords of Acid. The single comes with a new video, produced and directed by Latvia/UK experimental filmmaker Dariy Karyakin and featuring actors Nadine Andreeva and Egon Skakun.

Brighton’s (UK) post-punk fuelled alternative rock outfit Come The Spring release their official video for their latest single ’24’. Featuring live footage of the band showcasing their renowned high energy performances, 24 is taken from their REVIVE EP available through UK independent label Engineer Records. Having formed in late 2012 from the ashes of cult-following UK rock bands, Come The Spring members bring their vast experience and creativity to produce emotionally charged and anthemic songs. Consisting of Sam Craddock (Vox), David Gamage (Guitar), Simon Goodrick (Guitar), Mark Wilkinson (Bass) and Jamie Donbroski (Drums), the allies of uncompromised guitar driven rock have previously shared stages with the likes of Green Day, No FX, Texas Is The Reason, Braid and many more.

On the trail of their recent single ‘It Was Nothing’, Canadian synthwave duo Meter Bridge have announced they will be releasing their latest EP “Filter / Kite” through WEATNU Records. It includes three tracks – Filter’, ‘Kite’ and a Mind Veneration Remix by Mark LaFountain. Sound wise ‘Filter’ is very reminiscent of Severed Heads which got my attention straight away.

Check out Johann Kloos’s new one “Behind The Net Curtain”, which includes his usual eclectic mix of material and is as always well worthy of your attention.

Some news snippets:

Dylan Carlson is to officially self-release “Falling With A Thousand Stars and other Wonders From The House Of Albion” on 25th June. It is a solo album which is described as ” …..droning 6 and 12-string guitars, reinterpreting traditional old English and Scottish folk ballads into sombre instrumental pieces”.

Chester-based alt-electronic act, The Ladder release their new single, “Down” on May 30th via York label, Anonymous Records. The Ladder are production duo Addz Vindicare [vocals, bass, production] and Danny Ryder [synths, vocals] – ‘Down’ as a track moves The Ladder beyond the trappings of pure industrial-EBM, and incorporates elements of shoegaze.

Southern Lord has confirmed the impending release of Total Destruction (1999-2006) the collected discography of now defunct thrash rockers, Asschapel.

Zublue are a high energy three piece Garage Rock band from Essex, UK. Influenced by the likes of Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Foo Fighters and Sonic Youth, the band’s debut EP ‘Change the Channel’ is an angst-ridden examination of a modern world controlled by the media. Well worth a listen say I.